Until recently, who was responsible for data protection was rarely an issue—it was clearly the company’s sole responsibility. Now that companies are relying on outside parties and SaaS services for delivery of basic IT services and allowing staff to use their own equipment, the answer is unclear.

Companies seem to agree that cloud computing is the way things are going, but they are using different strategies to get there. Amazon is the largest cloud service, with Google's new announcements giving the giant a run for its money. But a SAP model—that may or may not be a cloud—is emerging.

Cloud management tools come in a confusing array of flavors and support functions, ranging from single point solutions to enterprise grade and priced comprehensive toolkits. Some tools work from the applications layer and extend down; others start at the infrastructure layer and work up.